Ceiling Fan Selection Process
Ceiling fans are a staple in most rooms. These rooms all have a unique style that the ceiling fan has to sync with. The selection process for a ceiling fan can take time and can take into consideration many different factors.
Choosing A Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans are one of the most economical and aesthetically pleasing additions to any room. It can drastically reduce your electricity bill and improve your quality of life at the same time.
How to Choose a Ceiling Fan
When looking into purchasing a ceiling fan there are many factors to consider.
- Price
- Quality
- Durability
- Efficiency
- How much air it will move
- Speed
- Noise
- Color
- Finish
- Style
- Blade design
- Accessories
- Lighting
Pricing a Ceiling Fan
Price can be a good indicator of many of these factors when looking into ceiling fans. A good quality fan will be slightly more expensive than a low quality fan. Inexpensive or low quality fans will wear out quickly, become off balance and make noise, and the blades will tend to warp. A good quality fan will provide long term satisfaction, comfort and savings if you pay attention to these factors.
Styles of Ceiling Fans and Finishes
Fans can be made of a wide variety of materials allowing for an almost unlimited number of styles. Some of the more common styles include:
- Oak
- Iron
- Copper
- Stainless steel
- Brushed nickel
- Polished brass
- Chrome
- Antiqued Brass
- Pewter
- Black
- Wood veneers
And also any color or finish that you choose to paint it.
The finish of a fan blade will affect how long the fan will last. A good, high quality finish will defend against corrosion, humidity, bubbling, blistering, fading, and peeling and make it a sound investment.
Ceiling Fan Sizes
A ceiling fan should fit into the room and not dominate it. Here are some general guides when choosing the size of the fan.
- A room up to 75 square feet, the fan should be between 29-36 inches
- Up to 144 sq feet, 36-42 inches
- Up to 225 sq feet, 50-54 inches
Ceiling Fan Height
Ceiling fans should be hung at least 7 feet from the floor or higher with the most efficient height typically 8-9 feet. This will allow for the greatest effect for comfort, aesthetics, circulation, and safety.
Ceiling Fan Blades, Motor, and Lighting
Fan blades should be weighted and matched to prevent wobbling and should be set between 12 and 15 degrees for optimal air movement. The ceiling fan motor will determine the life of your fan, so even if the fan you like is really cheap, see if you can upgrade the motor. Look for a high quality motor that has sealed, permanently lubricated bearings as these will run at a lower operating temperature, cause less noise, and have better air circulation. Ceiling fans with lights can easily change the look of the fan from classic to contemporary and will play up the look of the room.
Installation
Ceiling fan installation can be tricky as you are working on the ceiling which may require running new wires and installing an electrical outlet and cutting holes in the ceiling. For help with hanging your ceiling fan or any other home improvement project, find a local handyman to help.
